Editor’s Note: Some events may be affected by recent storms in various North Carolina counties, please call ahead before traveling to any of the events listed.

From October 2024 to February 2025, the Tar Heel State offers a smorgasbord of festivals, celebrations, and unique experiences that showcase its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and Southern hospitality.

Whether you're a foodie, nature enthusiast, art lover, or thrill-seeker, there's something for everyone in this lineup of 30 must-attend events.

For a truly memorable Independence Day, set up your chairs at the top of Jockey’s Ridge to take in two shows: Manteo’s fireworks soaring over Roanoke Sound and Nags Head Fishing Pier’s fireworks flying high over the ocean.

Calendar of Events

There’s plenty to do in North Carolina! Take a look at some of our favorite events going on across the state.

Oct. 4–6 | MOREHEAD CITY

North Carolina Seafood Festival

Dive into a sea of flavors at this Morehead City tradition. Enjoy fresh seafood, live music and maritime fun for the whole family.

Oct. 18–20 | STATESVILLE

Carolina BalloonFest

Watch the skies fill with colorful hot air balloons in Statesville. Take a tethered balloon ride or simply enjoy the spectacle from the ground while savoring local food and wine.

Oct. 19–20 | BANNER ELK

Woolly Worm Festival

Join the quirky fun in Banner Elk as woolly worms race to predict the winter forecast. Enjoy crafts, food and the crowning of the official winter forecasting worm.

Oct. 19–20 | OCEAN ISLE

North Carolina Oyster Festival

Shuck your way through this Ocean Isle Beach celebration of the mighty mollusk. Compete in oyster shucking contests and savor the briny delights in various preparations.

Oct. 19, 2024 – Feb. 2, 2025 | RALEIGH

Samurai: The Making of a Warrior Exhibition at the North Carolina Museum of Art

Discover the hidden world of samurai warriors through an extraordinary collection of arms, armor and cultural artifacts! This captivating exhibition unveils the nuanced lives of samurai, including the often-overlooked but crucial roles of samurai women.

Oct. 26 | LEXINGTON

Barbecue Festival

Pig out at this Lexington event showcasing North Carolina's famous barbecue. Enjoy live music, a classic car show and enough pulled pork to satisfy any carnivore's cravings.

Nov. 2 | WHITEVILLE

North Carolina Pecan Music Festival

Celebrate the humble pecan at this lively event in downtown Whiteville. Enjoy live music from local bands, browse craft vendors, indulge in pecan-themed treats and admire classic cars at the festival's car show.

Nov. 2 | WILSON

North Carolina Whirligig Festival

Celebrate folk art at this quirky Wilson festival dedicated to wind-powered sculptures. Admire the colorful whirligigs, enjoy live music and try your hand at making your own kinetic art.

Nov. 14–24 | CHARLOTTE

Southern Christmas Show

Kick off the holiday season at this Charlotte extravaganza of all things festive. Shop for unique gifts, admire elaborate decorations and get into the Christmas spirit.

Nov. 15 – Dec. 31 | ASHEVILLE

Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum

Stroll through a winter wonderland of lights in Asheville. Experience the magic of the season with stunning light displays and festive music.

Nov. 15, 2024 – Jan. 4, 2025 (select nights) |CHARLOTTE

WinterFest at Carowinds

Embrace the holiday spirit at this transformed amusement park near Charlotte. Enjoy ice skating, holiday shows and millions of twinkling lights.

Nov. 16, 2024 – Jan. 12, 2025 | CARY

NC Chinese Lantern Festival

Experience a dazzling display of illuminated art at Cary's Koka Booth Amphitheatre. Marvel at intricate lantern displays and enjoy cultural performances.

Nov. 19, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025 | ASHEVILLE

National Gingerbread House Competition

Marvel at intricate edible architecture at this sweet event in Asheville. Vote for your favorite gingerbread creation and enjoy holiday activities at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Gingerbread houses will be on display in late November and all through December 2024, as well as early January 2025.

Nov. 20–24 | WILMINGTON

Cucalorus Film Festival

Immerse yourself in independent cinema at this eclectic Wilmington film fest. Catch screenings, attend workshops, and rub elbows with emerging filmmakers.

Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 | WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH

North Carolina Holiday Flotilla

Marvel at the twinkling boat parade in Wrightsville Beach. Enjoy fireworks, a tree lighting ceremony and festive cheer on the water.

Nov. 29 – Dec. 21 (Fridays and Saturdays) | WINSTON-SALEM

Old Salem Joy of Christmas Evening Tours

Experience the charm of Old Salem’s evening tours on Fridays and Saturdays from Thanksgiving through Christmas. Step back into the 1800s with engaging activities that celebrate the heartwarming holiday traditions of yesteryear.

Dec. 31 | RALEIGH

First Night Raleigh

Ring in the New Year with this alcohol-free celebration in downtown Raleigh. Enjoy live performances, interactive art installation, and a giant acorn drop at midnight.

Jan. 23–26, 2025 | BLOWING ROCK

Blowing Rock WinterFest

Embrace the chill at this festive mountain town celebration. Participate in the Polar Plunge, enjoy ice carving demonstrations and warm up with comfort food and hot cocoa.

Feb. 6–8 | WILMINGTON

North Carolina Jazz Festival

Swing into the new year with this toe-tapping event in Wilmington. Enjoy performances by world-class jazz musicians in an intimate setting.